For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir ******* In this episode of H-Hour, Chris Shirley opens up about his life-altering mountain climbing accident and the arduous recovery journey that followed. He shares insights into how adventure plays a crucial role in building mental resilience and rediscovering purpose. Chris also talks about his work with Hiatus Digital, specializing in digital solutions for the defense sector, and the importance of thoughtful design in branding. The discussion underscores the power of community support and the impact of physical challenges on psychological growth. Tune in for an inspiring and educational conversation.

Chris Shirley is a former Royal Marines officer and also former Royal Military Police. Chris is also the founder of Hiatus Designs.

https://www.hiatus.design

https://www.instagram.com/hiatus.design.co

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir ****** In this H-Hour Icebreaker, Chris Shirley returns as a guest, answering questions submitted by H-Hour patrons. The topics range from the performance of marines in combat compared to other infantry units, to respect for figures like Bear Grylls within the military community. Additional discussions include the UK's digital ID for veterans and its privacy concerns, the impact of reviewing historic special forces actions on mental health, and strategies for maintaining focus during challenging physical endeavors. Shirley shares personal stories from ocean rowing to ultra marathons, highlighting the importance of positive role models and maintaining elements of military life post-service. The episode concludes with light-hearted banter and hints at future exclusive content for patrons.

Chris Shirley is a former Royal Marines officer and also former Royal Military Police. Chris is also the founder of Hiatus Designs.

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir For H-Hour #273 I sit down with Steve Holland, who shares his firsthand experiences from conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine. We discuss the complex dynamics between aid agencies, local populations, and militant groups in Gaza, as well as the devastating impact of war on Ukrainian children. Holland provides a vivid, unfiltered account of trench and drone warfare in Ukraine, emphasizing the stark differences from traditional combat. The conversation also explores the psychological resilience required to work in such dangerous environments, and Holland’s humanitarian efforts through his project, Children of Ukraine, to support war-affected kids. This is an eye-opening episode that underscores the harsh realities and human costs of modern warfare.

Steve's fundraising link for his Children of Ukraine initiative: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/steven-holland-699?utm_term=X2GynXaNE&utm_medium=FA&utm_source=CL

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir In this H-Hour Icebreaker, a preview to the full podcast, former soldier Steve Holland shares gripping accounts from Ukraine, offering profound insights into bravery and the harsh realities of modern warfare. He delves into the advancements in drone and robotic warfare, the emotional impact of war, and the importance of compassion, especially towards traumatized children. The episode also examines the moral complexities of showing empathy for enemy soldiers and understanding the strategic mind of leaders like Putin. This short intro to #273 provides an unfiltered exploration of life on the frontlines and the valuable lessons learned from the battlefield.

Steve Holland is a former soldier with tours including in Northern Ireland, Iraq, and Afghanistan. After leaving the army in 2014, he worked in close protection, returning to Iraq and Afghanistan for diplomatic and oil contracts. In 2022, he supported CNN and The New York Times in Ukraine, observing a WWII-like conflict transformed by drones and modern tech. He founded “Children of Ukraine,” a charity delivering aid and relocating children from danger and into safe spaces. Now, as Security Manager in Gaza for a global humanitarian aid organisation, he ensures staff safety and decision making in the delivery of food supplies to millions.

Steve's fundraising link for his Children of Ukraine initiative: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/steven-holland-699?utm_term=X2GynXaNE&utm_medium=FA&utm_source=CL

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir

Adnan Sarwar and I delve into the heart of modern Britain, exploring the causes and impacts of social unrest, the nuances of immigration, and the evolving concept of British identity. Adnan shares his firsthand experiences from recent protests around the country, offers a historical perspective on multiculturalism, and discusses his military background. The discussion also covers contemporary issues such as Digital IDs and the balance of morality within the military. This episode is a thought-provoking journey into the current state of Britain and the historical forces that have shaped it.

https://www.adnansarwar.com

https://substack.com/@adnansarwar

https://www.instagram.com/adnansarwarphotos

Adnan Sarwar served with the Royal Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit (EOD) and during his service completed multiple tours including the invasion of Iraq in 2003. Upon leaving the military, Adnan has forged a successful career as a documentary maker for Channel 4, ITV and the BBC, a writer. He previously edited at The Economist.

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir

In this insightful icebreaker for H-Hour, former soldier Adnan Sarwar answers challenging questions from Platinum subscribers, reflecting on grief, identity, and military culture. This gripping session includes raw discussions about the Iraq War, the significance of storytelling, and the power of photography. Adnan also opens up about his book, 'British Muslim Soldier,' and its exploration of belonging and values. Enjoy this compelling 20-minute podcast that sets the stage for a profound conversation in the full podcast episode, #272.

https://www.adnansarwar.com/

https://substack.com/@adnansarwar

https://www.instagram.com/adnansarwarphotos/

Adnan Sarwar served with the Royal Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit (EOD) and during his service completed multiple tours including the invasion of Iraq in 2003. Upon leaving the military, Adnan has forged a successful career as a documentary maker for Channel 4, ITV and the BBC, a writer. He previously edited at The Economist.

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir

Tina Woods joins H-Hour to share her profound journey from studying genetics to revolutionizing the health and well-being sector. This episode explores her innovative approach to combining science and rave culture through co-founding Longevity Rave, the impact of the Human Exposome Project, and the role of social behaviour in achieving a healthier life. Tina discusses the transformative effects of technology on health, the significance of community, and the critical importance of preventative care over the traditional healthcare model. Join us for a conversation filled with insights on human flourishing, longevity, and breaking boundaries in the health industry.

https://longevityrave.world

https://www.instagram.com/longevity.rave

https://soundcloud.com/user-639532491

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir

In this thought-provoking icebreaker for H-Hour, guest Tina Woods answer questions from H-Hour patrons. Tina delves into pivotal questions on life's meaning, longevity, and well-being. She discusses the impact of optimism on lifespan, the science behind biological and subjective age, and the moral complexities surrounding euthanasia. The episode also touches on Tina's personal journey from her least happy in her twenties to her most fulfilled state now. With questions sourced from Patreon subscribers, this engaging conversation sets the stage for the full podcast #271 exploring longevity, health, and finding purpose in life.

https://longevityrave.world

https://www.instagram.com/longevity.rave

https://soundcloud.com/user-639532491

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir

For episode #270, emmy-award winning documentary film maker (and former soldier) Tom Martienssen and I delve into the fascinating and dangerous world of wildlife filmmaking for H-Hour. Tom shares his experiences documenting the birth of a black rhino, a feat never before captured on film. We also explore the complex and often perilous efforts of anti-poaching rangers in Kenya, the socioeconomic factors driving poaching, and the resilience of the wildlife conservation community. Tom's journey from filming human conflict zones to capturing rare wildlife moments showcases the intertwined struggles for survival, both human and animal.

Tom's first appearance on H-Hour was on #101 https://charliecharlieone.com/2020/09/h-hour-podcast-101-tom-martienssen-journalist-documentary-maker-raf-regiment/

Tom Martienssen is an Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker and cinematographer who has worked in over 50 countries and territories, including Afghanistan, the Arctic, the Himalayas, and the Pacific Islands. His career began while working as a combat search and rescue team member in Afghanistan, which sparked his passion for storytelling. He later trained at the BBC Academy and worked as a journalist for the BBC World Affairs Unit before focusing on cinematography. Martienssen has covered major global events, including surviving and reporting on the 2015 earthquake in Nepal and working undercover in the Middle East to report on ISIS. He is currently directing and shooting four documentaries, focusing on conservation in Nigeria, poaching in Kenya, culture in global Indigenous communities, and high Arctic exploration. He collaborates on his projects with Diamond Docs and the BBC. One of his upcoming films, Rhino (2025), is a documentary about a wildlife ranger protecting endangered black rhinos in Kenya. He is also the founder of Dustoff Films and an honouree of The Explorers Club 50

https://www.instagram.com/dustoff_films

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir

H-Hour Icebreaker Tom Martienssen features Emmy-winning documentary film maker, former RAF Regiment soldier. In this compelling preview to #270, Tom Martienssen shares gripping stories from Afghanistan, the nuances between different military units, and the complexities of dealing with PTSD. From filming with the Taliban to capturing the first-ever Black rhino birth in the wild, Tom provides deep insights into the challenges and triumphs of both war and filmmaking. His discussion also highlights the essential support systems for veterans, making this episode a poignant exploration of resilience and recovery.

Tom's first appearance on H-Hour was on #101 https://charliecharlieone.com/2020/09/h-hour-podcast-101-tom-martienssen-journalist-documentary-maker-raf-regiment/

Tom Martienssen is an Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker and cinematographer who has worked in over 50 countries and territories, including Afghanistan, the Arctic, the Himalayas, and the Pacific Islands. His career began while working as a combat search and rescue team member in Afghanistan, which sparked his passion for storytelling. He later trained at the BBC Academy and worked as a journalist for the BBC World Affairs Unit before focusing on cinematography. Martienssen has covered major global events, including surviving and reporting on the 2015 earthquake in Nepal and working undercover in the Middle East to report on ISIS. He is currently directing and shooting four documentaries, focusing on conservation in Nigeria, poaching in Kenya, culture in global Indigenous communities, and high Arctic exploration. He collaborates on his projects with Diamond Docs and the BBC. One of his upcoming films, Rhino (2025), is a documentary about a wildlife ranger protecting endangered black rhinos in Kenya. He is also the founder of Dustoff Films and an honouree of The Explorers Club 50

https://www.instagram.com/dustoff_films